The survey revealed that investment-home sales in 2015 jumped 7.0 percent to an estimated 1.09 million from 1.02 million in 2014.

Lawrence Yun, NAR’s chief economist discussed the increase in the number of sales:

“Despite a smaller share of distressed properties coming onto the market, investment purchases reversed course in 2015 after declining for four straight years. Steadily increasing home prices and strong rental demand appear to be giving more individual investors assurance that purchasing real estate will diversify their portfolios and generate additional income if they decide to rent out the home.”

Prices Are Also Up

The price paid by investors also increased in 2015 by 15.3%.

Look for future infographic that will highlight the other findings about investors from the survey.